5 Tips For Self Taught Drummers - How To Get Better Quicker! 🚀

[@clava7851]

“Play along to your favorite songs” Me, someone who basically only listens to metal: nervous shivering

[@AstoraNoble]

i feel you lmao, half the music i listen to would be really hard for me since im still not great

[@simonedmondson8875]

The good thing is when you practise to metal when you get ok at it most other music feels easy in comparison

[@OrmanNelson]

@@AstoraNoble Me before playing metal: "I'm ready to practice hard!" Me after 30 seconds of metal: "Man, what a day!"

[@joelbrown6411]

@@RyanLivesForGodAlways Thank you. Jesus is king. Your efforts are appreciated.

[@gavinthecrafter]

I like alt rock so sometimes its easy for me and sometimes it isnt

[@Kentavious444]

Being a self taught drummer myself, another important tip I could add comes from a discovery about how our brain works. Apparently Scientists discovered that we have a "learning center" in the brain and after we've learned something through repetition it is transferred to another region in the brain for instant retrieval. The scientist that made this discovery referenced someone learning a piano piece. They determined that after practicing something roughly 100 times the brain has fully absorbed the information and it is then moved to the section for retrieval. Repetition is very effective at creating habits both good and bad. It's used in advertising and even brainwashing because it is so effective. SO, my point is, if you practice something at least 100 times it will be indelibly printed in your mind. Beyond that, each time you play a piece that you've learned will become exponentially easier and eventually without need for conscious thought at all. I have tested this theory out myself. Very often I have struggled for hours on something without success, only to go to sleep and then wake up the next day and play it perfectly on the first try! I have to smile every time that happens!😁

[@MrLawnboy71]

Couldn't agree more! 👍.... Normally after a couple days as sometime I just can't get into it, then go bk a couple of days later and just amaze myself ....with a feeling of reward & know its coming!...& smile 🙌 Great feeling! Great video thanks for sharing 👍

[@whiphess7658]

That's crazy because I have noticed that! I come back better to something every once in a while without even practicing for a bit

[@Kentavious444]

@@whiphess7658 LOL!! I know kinda crazy huh? But it helps to be confident that you are capable of learning anything if you can just repeat the process enough times. We are like computers inputting data.

[@XDarkstarXUnknownUnderverse]

Repetition is always key to any training. I started at 13 and dropped drums at 16 until now at 37, and I still remember most of what I gathered and mostly due to making music/producing for over 20 years. Being as someone formerly in Naval medicine, this is true, and muscle memory (procedural memory) is a real thing.

[@tonydunn3652]

As a scientist, who plays drums, I really like your explanation and I’ve learned something 👍👍👍👍

[@educ8dmind]

“Basement University” 😂🤣🔥

[@drummer78]

That’s where I attended

[@grahambeveridge9031]

Me as well! Lol

[@drindy5166]

I am pretty sure we all have crossed paths at some point lol. Same campus here ✌🤣👍

[@honkytonkinson9787]

I live at university apparently!

[@failuretolaunchdrums]

Needs to be a shirt

[@wcw07]

"It requires a lot of skill to play drums, but you don't need a lot of skill to have fun on them" This is one of the best things for a beginner drummer to hear!

[@scott555]

40 years self taught. Just bought a pad after starting to watch your videos. Amazing to discover where I'm barely a novice in some areas and beyond advanced in others, with hardly a clue which is which.

[@SquizbarDeAlienOfficial]

I’m a self taught guitarist of 20 years, self taught bassist & Synth player for 5 years and now day 1 of drumming with my E-Kit. I’m glad I found your channel!

[@keithbeckwith9253]

I’ve been digging your channel for a while now but In this video when you said when the sermon gets boring take out the practice Pad I laughed so hard I think the person in the vehicle next to me thought I was having a seizure. As a pastor that is great humor keep it up brother thank you so much for what you’re doing for the drumming community

[@qoodrink347]

Hey Rob I'm a self-taught drummer as well and been following you since the early days. Thanks for all the help so far and keep on doing what you do!

[@vasileskialeksandar]

Greetings from Macedonia. I've been drumming for 2 years now, I am a self-taught drummer and 90% of the stuff I know about drums came from this man. Thank you Rob!

[@DavidOakesMusic]

I started in 1995 and immediately could hold a beat. I started playing in church / along to CDs and was in bands after 1 year. I just never bothered with rudiments until 2019. When the Pandemic started I decided to get an e-kit and start properly learning rudiments. I now have a nice hybrid electro acoustic kit.

[@camerondarnell3399]

Nice!

[@grantturner6984]

So good. I think of Computers. The term user friendly. I am age 60, so I remember the evolvement of Computers over time and the less user friendly they were the less fun they were to use. For me that is! This video has an attitude and a theme of realizing that the drums can be user friendly for anyone. Follow the 5 steps and be sure to have fun with it, along the way. Fantastic! I am a self taught drummer. I feel that I have the knack for drumming and I do play with musicians and gig now and again, and have since I was 18. I do not have a good practicing habit. My biggest motive is to learn songs for rehearsals, and gigs. There is so much more to work on. I might have put in about 10% of the time on the drums that this fella RB has put in. I guess today is a new day!

[@Bazf666]

Couple more tips: 1. Some skills takes years to practice. Stumbled on a guy on KZbin that said that it took him almost 3 years to make his double strokes roll sound good. Do not even bother yourself with all that bullshit like “I am not talented enough, etc, etc” after couple month of training. Keep doing it. 2. You always should practice base things: single strokes (tap, accent, tap-to-tap, tap-to-accent, accent-to-accent, accent-to-tap), double strokes, moeller stuff, fingers techniques, different types of grips. It is all gonna contribute into your stick control, fluidity, confidence, you name it. 3. Re-watch basics tutorial once in a while to check out your technique. 4. Try different types of pad workouts. There is a lot of different drills on KZbin, try a new one every week or so. 5. Get yourself a cover band, it is gonna pump up your motivation.

[@Asagohantabemasuka]

Self taught drummer here, still in early stages, and your videos have always been part of the trip from day one. So thank you for all the tips and information Rob!

[@mesawolff2233]

Thanks Rob, I used to beat myself up all the time because of “practice guilt” it actually started to become no fun. Then a couple years ago I started to play to have fun and it changed everything.

[@Hwashburn]

Rob, I'm incredibly impressed that you are a self-taught drummer. After watching and learning from your videos over the last few years, I have always assumed that you must be formally trained because . . .you are so freaking good! Wow. I'm self taught ( other than watching KZbin videos, especially yours), and to know that you in fact are self taught gives me a lot of hope! Thanks for all the videos over the last few years!

[@steverichdrummr]

Hey Rob. I try too watch as many of your videos as I can, because I think you're great, and fun. You seem so nice and down to earth. I am retired now, and have been drumming just shy of 60 years. Let me tell you man, this is your best video ever, hands down. You're going to help a ton of drummers with this one. Thanks so much.

[@RobBeatdownBrown]

Thanks a bunch, man 👊🏽🙂

[@TheTayedrums]

@@RobBeatdownBrown you do have a great-down to earth approach(encouraging)...based on fun and getting better-not getting better at all cost...

[@Divizoro]

Rob, this video has come at such an opportune time for me. I've been playing for 5 years now (self-taught) and I've always struggled with getting a routine down to practice. I always have to force myself to do it because it's just not that fun for me to hit a pad for 15 mins a day, personally. When I first started, I would always just play to my favourite songs and that first year of playing I improved an insane amount. Since then I've somewhat plateaued and lost sight of what made it fun for me in the first place. I've been so caught up with trying to get better that it became a chore, something I had to do, rather than something I WANT to do. So yeah, thanks for the content my man, always appreciated, this video was just what I needed to fall back in love with practicing!

[@gregwonhoff7161]

Great job, Beatdown. I spent 39 years teaching and 45 years coaching, and your approach and your delivery is spot on. Thank you for taking your time to help us out here get to be better.

[@John.Longstreth]

"practice whatever you want, when you want" ............... love it. thank you!

[@marcdinowitz2094]

When he said practice things your not good at and you will make progress, that’s the best tip of all. Wise words

[@GoalieByAl]

My favorite you tube teacher. I had my first kit when I was 17. I had a “friend” that wanted to borrow my kit for a gig. I never saw him again. Fast forward I am now 63 and I have been a frustrated wanna be drummer. I jus t purchased an E-kit and I have it going through my sound board and system in my game room. I was a club DJ in the 80’s and a member of the New England DJ Association so I have 12” promotional disks like no ones business! I will be joining Drummeo. Wish me luck on my new journey and if all goes well I will invest in an acoustic kit. Love you bro and Godspeed.

[@dvvalant]

Thanks for the advice Rob. I was a garage band drummer in the early 70s. Then took about 38 years off, but finally bought another drum set and began again. I've never had an in-person lesson but KZbin has helped. Mostly I play along with music for fun. Am teaching my grandsons the very basics as well. Keep up the great work sir!!

[@BryanM362]

Nailed it Rob! One that I would add, is playing with other musicians, i.e. Jamming.. Of course, you have to reach a basic level of proficiency to do this, but I saw a big jump in my ability when I started trying to make music with other musicians. It helps put things in a big picture perspective.

[@markhinde6668]

First time viewer not a drummer and accidentally clicked on this video. Play string instruments and your tips 2,4&5 apply well to other instruments, and #5 to anything you enjoy doing or want to progress in. Good video.

[@pinballrobbie]

Same here,

[@philiphobgen8283]

I'm a self taught drummer and started playing in 95 when I was 14. Watching this video back then would have really helped and every tip is gold. I think it is really important for younger drummers starting out to know it is absolutely fine to be self-taught if that is what works for them and there really is no 'right' path that suits everyone. It is up to the individual completely. Also there has never been a better time to be self-taught. There are so many resources today and wise mentors like Rob whose expertise can be readily accessed. Rob's words about just enjoying it resonate strongly with me as well. I always look to find that same joy and awe I got from smashing around on a battered kit playing to tapes and cds 25 years ago. That joy is what it's all about for me at the end of the day when you strip everythingelse back. Drums are awesome.

[@kecikdrummer]

Wow...we are same age and same begining the journey in 95. Back then i learn a lot from 'come out and play' and 'smells like teen spirit'. That full blast of distort in that songs always made me crazy to air drumming. Untill i realize where actualy i can playing. Then i went to the jamming studio nearby alone and play it my self and continue with self tought untill now..

[@ericneal8921]

Excellent info sir. I always wanted to play drums, finally started self learning when the pandemic hit. Your videos are helping this 50 yr old beginner figure it all out. You are greatly appreciated Mr. Brown!

[@alexg7669]

Nice work man, me too, the pandemic was my doorway to drums and I haven't looked back

[@johnmoschides72]

I started at 48, never too late to start.

[@robotx4242]

Same here. Started during lock down. Got a mid-priced electronic kit. I play along backing tracks and internet radio. I was surprised how all those years of air drumming actually helped.

[@JackPlaysDrums]

Totally agree with you. I was 52 when the pandemic hit and I started. I saw Rob on Drumeo and have been following him since.

[@kecikdrummer]

No late for musics, now its the time to improve your playing after two years since covid.. Never buy an electric kit, buy an acoustic one depending on your home, space and surrounding. Because its more realistic to be a profesional. But, Nevermind if you're living in an apartments, just get an electric then.

[@Takelow]

I am mainly a self taught drummer too, and I agree 100% with these tips. The « Do whatever you want, whenever you want » is gold. As long as you are focus during your practice time, and work on new things, you’ll make some progress. Guaranteed! 😉

[@joesshows6793]

Yeah I like to play ‘second drum’ when playing along.

[@honkytonkinson9787]

Agree! Keep it fun! With that in mind, working on your hands in the practice pad for 5 to 10 min a day can make a big difference, though you can also integrate that into a warmup on the set Keep it fun though!

[@honuman39]

Agreed. After 30+ years of playing I developed a practice routine that's about warming up the hands and feet with rudiments and speed but after that I play however I want and have fun.

[@SPINNINGMYWHEELS777]

started in 1999 at age of 26 after being a Turntable DJ for 10 years. Being a DJ helped big time to understand rhythm transitions and tempo. I played in bands as a DJ and the percussion aspect also was being solidified as well as an Encyclopedic knowledge of 'Beats' also coming from producing music with a sample based structure (hip hop / electronic) . I remember the first year, I was playing a guys kit at an audio studio and he kind of sarcastically said 'in 5 years you might be good'... I wasn't asking for an opinion and wasn't trying to upstage anyone (just trying to have fun!) and I KNEW I was lacking some fundamentals especially with hand work on the snare , he was a Punk drummer - and I was doing some funk stuff that he couldn't do..but I took his words 'to grow on' . Some drummers are very insecure I found out very quickly ! The thing I cherish about being mostly self taught is developing your own mode. You WILL stand out. I get people all the time saying how they want to play with me of all music types - if they hear me messing around, from country to metal. I don't really do metal but I can play it in an 80s method that they seem to appreciate - because i grew early teens up on Skate Thrash rock which much metal now is based on but now to a computer grid. Thanks Rob .. I love that little Yamaha mic.. might look into getting it for it's ease of use .

[@doublekick777]

Hi rob hope your well? I’m self taught I have to agree with what said 💯 I played along to records And played along to a click from my double bass practice I devolved a great ear and pocket After 5 years of bashing away for hours daily just having a blast It got me the drum seat for a big punk band I then started the pad work much later on defo a game changer for me I love your channel man Cheers ian

[@Loilicorne17615]

Tbh the biggest problem I have with drums is not having a drum set 😭

[@nagysamuel2575]

I bought an electric drum set a month ago, but before that I thought a lot before buying it, because musical instruments are EXTREMELY expensive, its ridiculous

[@Tyro_]

Honestly bro you can find a beat up POS for $500, takes some cash to start but that’s all you need Outside of that practice pad is huge

[@TheTayedrums]

there are el cheapo drum sets all around...whats your budget? if nothing else buy a cheap kit--put some decent heads on it and play your ass off...til it sounds good..after a while you may then want to invest more $$ ...craiglist-,second hand shops,you may even make your own kit with diff. brands.(who cares)..just make it happen...(smile)

[@0neMadGypsy]

Drumsticks and a hard-cover book. Beat on that whole you save up some cash for a decent kit. Don't buy some garbage kit just because you can afford it. Save up and get a decent kit. Playing drums that sound like shit or have issues staying together is not helpful. My kit is electric, and it was cheap. I'm running it through an effects processor and mixer to make it sound halfway decent. If it wasn't for the fact that I am lucky enough to have that extra equipment, playing drums would not be fun. They would sound absolutely awful and would actually be useless for anything more than practice. They're barely better than practice drums even with the extra post processing. Get a real kit, or get a shitty kit and still need a kit.

[@theunbanned4553]

I agree with what you said about practicing whatever you want. I find myself overthinking it what you say, and sometimes I'm doing something else because I'm thinking too much. Most of the time it's just that simple to just sit behind the kit and play!

[@jimbarcelona1078]

Dead on I had been taught by rudimental drummer first then a jazz and rock drummer for a few years but in all honesty Rob Beatdown Brown showed me alot of great information on his channel so if your serious watch Rob he is the most!. Thanks big guy.Those of you who really want to learn Rob is your man.

[@larrykingrey5647]

Rob excellent as usual, brother. My mind went to using the Click as tip #6. When playing to tracks, the track is your click. When working without the prerecorded audio of a track, use a click app on your phone. #7 while using a click start at slow tempos and increase tempo as you progress. #8 Use an app that slows a track down so you can figure out the licks on the track. Then work on them beginning slowly, playing along to the tempo controlled app.

[@curtishinkle7885]

Another self taught drummer, pots and pans all over the house, as well as the car dashboard and table tops even on my WIFE, gotta love it, eh? also 3 to 8 hrs playing to music, God blessed me with a GOOD ear and the availability to PICK IT UP fast, playing on the fly, natural drumming ability but you can only go so far with that, i kick myself for not pursuing it farther, no telling where it would have taken me, been in tons of bands started in clubs at 14 years old, made good money, had a blast, playing at several churches, love to play but didn't fine tune my God given talent, still..... nothing like playing in the pocket... love your channel

[@briansempsrott6195]

Regarding step 5, years ago a friend and I met Buddy Rich and my friend (whom we had nick-named Rudy Rudiment) said to Buddy after the show, "Now I need to go practice my rudiments", to which Buddy replied, "Rudiments Hell, just play man, just play!" Keep up the good work, Rob. I've been wearing your shirts to gigs.

[@delmar418]

I'm really happy to see a drummer of your caliber to address the topic about being self-taught. I used to drive my car to castings, to offest the anxiety I played by dash & steering wheel- NOT RECOMMENDED. I didn't get into an accident over this. But, it really helped me to play along and keep that dexterity up until I bought an electric kit. I used to play acoustic, recorded albums, but in an apartment? LOL! Practice pads are the best thing, and I always record myself both video and audio to see my weaknesses to improve. Thank you, Rob- you're the cat's pajamas!

[@mikej4800]

Thank you sir for your message(s). I started playing drums in '67, and played faithfully with records almost daily. I've only played with other musicians on a few occasions which was a blast. When I started playing sports, my drums got dusty and I never returned. Last year (at 67) I saw a sign in the neighborhood for drum lessons. I had always wanted to play again and this time learn how to read. This went on for two months, but my teacher was going through family issues and had to discontinue. I fell off again because it was discouraging especially after I bought the Roland drum set from Sweetwater. Which brings me to your videos. I look for the simplest routines to try, and work on those. One thing I find out watching you is how much I don't know yet. At 67, this old dog is learning new kicks. Thanks

[@alanaustin4260]

61 years old. Just picked up a "free" set of vintage Ludwig drums (circa late '70s) from a neighbor. In the process of restoring them. Have been playing guitar over 20 years but never drummed in my life. Always wanted to learn. This seems like a great place to get started. Subscribed.

[@joe_tipakuah4880]

Im a self taught drummer Rob.And I take all tips and lessons from your videos here and Drumeo.If you dont have practice pad, utilize a pillow for stronger wrist and better stick control.I first started using pillow before buying a practice pad 3 months later.Then in 2020 after 3 months of lockdown I bought myself my first drumset.Then now I practiced a lot on the drums and also the practice pad.Greetings from Malaysia Rob.

[@Jursorama]

Thank you Rob!!--down to earth as always with great humor, positive vibe, lack of ego... you're the greatest!

[@torpedocyclonetom217]

I’m 2.5 years in. I’ve tried to look up tips, finally… this video elaborates on tips I knew but I understand them better now. Never f*cking got a practice pad and I’m buying one right now, thanks 🙏

[@256k_]

im a self taught bassist (20 years now) that is just starting to learn drums (1 month ) and to avoid any bad habits developing (as i had with bass) i decided this time i would get a drum teacher. he helps me notice the things im doing wrong and gives me exercises and i practice them at home as well as play along with songs. its great to know you're a self taught drummer as well.

[@drsamurai009]

Great tips. I'm self taught on keys, bass and simple guitar chordings. Now at 50-ish, I'm learning the drums. The keys and drums have posture in common which is very important especially if you're self taught. Also, unless you're going to be playing gigs where there is a common kit for all the drummers to use (personal adjustments like cymbals, and pedals not withstanding) there is no one perfect setup so do what works for you. There are a ton of videos on KZbin showing how to set up the kit taking into account, leg angle, posture for core and balance, and arm considerations for reaching everything without doing things like set the ride up to obstruct a floor tom, LOL. Set up what's best for you and what is comfortable for you to learn on. If your kit looks different from your drum hero, don't worry or obsess over that. Set up the kit that works for you as far as drum and cymbal heights and ignore awkward tilting toms and snares because they look cool.

[@phillippettijohn7946]

I like your video! You seem very down to earth and real.I also am self taught. Play strictly by ear. I played for a long time then packed them away for 15 years. Started back up again. Got my 1st smart phone in 2019. Started playing with it and trying to learn how to use it. I too started recording myself and posting for my friends. Then Started my youtube page. I decided to jump in with both feet. I love watching other drummers and trying to learn new techniques Im 58, they say you cant reach an old dog new tricks, but I do try LOL!. I find that posting my videoes then looking back on them is a very good teaching tool. I feel like I am my worst critique! I come home from off the road and will go to my mysic room and play for hours on end non stop. Like you said, Its all about having fun and enjoying yourself and hopefully entertaining others. I know there is always someone that is better, that just gives me a target to strive for. Again I enjoyed your video. New subscriber here!

[@CoredusK]

I've gotten my first e-drum kit 1 month ago! Having SO much fun! Spending all the time I can on it. And yes, recording myself is painful haha. It feels amazing yet sounds like s

[@sanchtodd4203]

Thanks for your statements from experience. I'm in my 2nd year of exploring this wonderful instrument at age 58 and take as much as I can to do better. Great advice.

[@woody4269]

Nice. Same on both mate. It's awesome learning t drums. I'm was stunned how difficult it is. And loving t challenge. 🍻

[@Art_Vark_and_Rock]

...YES...!!! Having fun is the most important part...the more you play, the better you get...

[@DjsArtistRep]

"Make developing your hands a primary focus" Your videos transformed my playing Beat Down. I started with the 2 five minute videos. Wow, I could not believe the fluidity they added. Thank You!

[@davidgomersall7185]

As a self taught drummer who only really got serious with it over the last few years I would say that this is 100% solid gold advice. I would also add take every opportunity you get to play with other musicians because, when it comes down to it, music is a conversation and you don't want to spend all your time talking to yourself. The other peice of advice I would give on top of that is dive into it. Don't be intimidated by the stuff you see on Instagram or other social media, remember that those folks have had time to edit out the bits they didn't want you to see. And, above all else, have fun. This isn't a competition and all your favourite drummers will have drummers that they look up to as well. Anyway, great video Beatdown

[@shannongibson4591]

You're just great man. Love the way you communicate. I'm 47, never had a formal lesson and have made a living from playing. The only thing missing from this vid for me is "always keep in mind the balance between where you want to be with this vs what other musicians care about & want from you" as the 2 are often miles apart. Being able to lay down solid time and feel tastefully gets the gigs. The flash is more likely to lose them for you.

[@Ricacardo]

It's been such a joy watching your channel grow over the past 3 years. Keep it up Rob, you're the best teacher out there hands down

[@vict0limadrums]

Tip #5 caught me deep... I'm always concerned about scheaduling my practice time and use to feel bad when I can't make it. Now I'm going to try to be more "free" at my practice time and try to have more fun... We really can't forget that part. Thanks for real!

[@apdito]

Hey Rob, I’m a self taught drummer of 58 years, the only instruction I had was from my grandfather who was a semi professional drum and marimba player. Now that I’m retired I play every day for at least 3 hours and can’t get enough of it. Your videos are inspiring and fun to watch, it’s great to have a passion and it’s very important in your latter years to keep that Grey matter stimulated. All the best to you.

[@honuman39]

Drums are great for brain stimulation aren't they? 👍

[@sauletto1]

It's one thing to watch videos for tips, advice and explanations when learning how to do something. Todays access to information is virtually limitless on the internet . It's a totally amazing thing to do that and feel like the person you are paying attention to has been a lifelong friend. One that is very selflessly donating his time and knowledge sincerely interested in you becoming the best you can be. That is how I feel watching any of your videos . Relaxed , calm and stress free.... honest from the heart life experienced information. This is how it's supposed to be done. Thanks for being "you", Rob ! 💯

[@christianheidenreich3673]

Watching you and taking your advice means a lot of fun to me and I will continue and coming back as often as possible. Thanks a lot, dude.

[@fepatton]

Years ago, a drummer who admired greatly suggested I record myself. I went out and got a multitrack recorder that would let me record myself along with other recordings, especially the "music minus one" CDs I had collected. That was a real eye-opener and gave me more tools to analyze my playing and improve my timing and groove. With working at home being a thing now, I recently decided to drag out a practice pad and put it next to my desk. I'm getting more pad work done now than I ever have!

[@ILikeWafflz]

I would like to add an extension to tip #4: Do record yourself, but equally important is to get comfortable with watching yourself. For a lot of people, hearing/seeing yourself play for the first time is really going to hurt; I know it did for me, but what really helped me make some progress was getting comfortable with watching and listening to myself so I could actually see what needed adjustment, and that took a really long time for me actually. I'm also glad to see #5 because that's always what I've done. I never forced myself into a routine because, as Rob is saying, I went into drumming with the mindset that I was not going to make it a chore, and that my main goal was to have fun. My practice has always consisted of a few minutes of slowly building up a part of a song I was struggling with at the time, or a minute or two of analyzing my hands as I played basic patterns on a disengaged snare, or a minute or two of observing and working out general ergonomics, e.g. rolling up and down the toms slowly to find the most economic path, slowly speeding up, finding the problem area, ect. The idea is to clean up your playing by systematically going through all of the really small things, and they eventually add up to improve your experience as a whole, rather than trying to grind out an hour of one thing hoping to suddenly get good at it.

[@sub-jec-tiv]

New drummer here who used to brute force playing in rock bands in the 90s (meaning, all hits from wrists/arm, no fingers no technique). But now i’m getting serious and i’m so glad to check out this video; that bit about always making sure it’s fun, that’s so good to hear. Your channel is super helpful. Will keep checking back.

[@rug0]

Great Video Mr. Brown . as a self taught drummer myself , i have long resigned from playing the local clubs ;} the areas in which i failed to learn. i am learning now , how much difference sticking can make is simply amazing , ghost notes , accents etc.. thats really all that matters after one can keep time and play a beat that people enjoy. how and how hard one hits the hi-hat can make or break a groove - its a beautiful thing - try them ghost notes and rim shots on that snare - its a different world

[@tonycarpenter-Makzimia]

Hi Rob, I only just heard that you were self taught too. I began 20 odd years ago. Until Covid lockdowns I never played drums with anyone else. I should say, I was pretty good at playing drums on my keyboard so not unfamiliar with where to go. My way was initially with a Roland TD10 kit that has the cheesy audio bytes that play and you can turn the drum part off and play along. I spent MANY hours doing that, then I progressed to playing along with an MP3 player, all sorts of songs. I think the biggest push forward I got, because I am very much a sound driven player on my chosen instruments, was playing with other players. Jamulus that I frequent all week days has been my biggest lesson. I get really bored trying repetitive exercises only. And hell yes, have fun always!! Sorry for the long post :)

[@fbeegle]

"Be nice in the comments!!" This guy cracks me up, I dig this channel.

[@almogleizerman2328]

i know this video is 2 y/o but one tip i'd give, related to the second one you mentioned, is: try to learn a song thats hard for you, than play it again in half year or more to see how much have you improved. for example, i learned la villa strangiato and tried to play it around 9 month later, it felt so much easier than the time i struggled with it

[@LowCountryMack]

Excellent vid! I started in 71 when there were only 26 essential drum rudiments. I took that and taught myself on the kit. Rudiment knowledge helped, but applying it to a kit was a huge animal. Like you said, 'if you love this instrument', 4 or 5 hours goes by quick. I haven't played regularly in all that time but, I've never stopped. They just want let you. Playing to music is a great way to learn and develop a sense of time and chops.Metronomes are a great tool but, can get boring. Thanks for this and I am subscribing.

[@jtompkins1277]

I'm 45 and have played guitar and bass for decades. Mostly in high-energy punk and rock and roll bands. I had been intimidated for as long as I can remember from getting behind a kit. I still am for the most part, but I have for over a year now been playing on just a snare and finding that this has been a really excellent way to ease myself into percussion. I've been working on learning from all genres and the little nuances I hear in drumming are incredible.

[@artdimino1626]

Hey Rob, I just want to say I love that you’re out there for us. I’ve always enjoyed your presentation.

[@RS-oj3eb]

Im 51 self taught if you call it that. Looking back i should have asked my parents for lessons, and took it more serious then i did. Never did the rudiment exercise. But today there's so much info on youtube, kids or adults take advantage of this info. I do now.

[@Desmodue803]

hey rob, I played drums as a teenager for over 5yrs.. I’m was a pretty decent player. now ten years later I wanna pick it up again. the yamaha special v power is ready. It’s something very deep inside of me that wants to go back and jam it up! I’m gonna stick around your channel. keep it up

[@lionheartroar3104]

Thanks!👍

[@craigjennings6940]

This bloke is a deadset champion human being. Cool, talented, chilled, skilled champion.

[@jacoba0030]

Awesome info as always!! I think “practicing whenever you want” is key. I sometimes make my biggest discoveries on the fly.

[@FELIX-my1pu]

I'm self taught and I've been playing for almost 30 years and that's some of the best advice I've heard. Love your content man... keep it up!

[@nokoolaid]

When I started playing it was on my own and then less than a year later I started lessons. My teacher tried to break me of bad habits. I remember bringing Boston's first album to a lesson. That's how long ago it was. I took lessons for 4 years and then went on my own. Lots of stuff still drive me nuts. The problem I had early on was wanting to just play music and not be crammed by the classic mess, meaning traditional ways of doing things. I have one bit of advice: Hearing protection. My left ear is messed up from Marshall stacks. Tinnitus is no joke.

[@kecikdrummer]

I'm sorry to heard that. So, now are still playing or not? Some of my friends suggest me, if you wanna play then use the headphone or the ear cover.. But i dont know if it working or not. I never trying that. I have dealing with some ear pain while drumming. How you solve that problem brother?

[@nokoolaid]

@@kecikdrummer I don't have ear pain per se, but constant ringing and a 50% loss in the left ear. I sold my kit when I moved to a different state, but I am looking to buy something again, boy have things gotten expensive! I have a pad and my sticks though.

[@0neMadGypsy]

You made my day. I basically do everything that you said, already. I have an electric kit. My snare comes off easy so I use it as a practice pad. I've been playing to music since minute one of putting the kit together. Also, I have a 6 channel mixer that can record, so I have also been recording since the beginning. If you type "drumless music" into the KZbin search, there are a bunch of songs to play along with. IMO, it's better if there are no drums. On one hand I'm not trying to keep up with a drummer that is obviously better than me. And on the other hand I don't have the distraction of an established beat getting in the way of my beat. I knew from day one that the first wall I needed to break is body separation. I found all these tutorials regarding syncopated beats and practiced them incessantly. So this one covers finding my source and practicing what I suck at (although I don't actually suck at it anymore). I'd like to add to your list. I've only been playing drums for 2 months and I'm pretty good for that amount of time. I'm not trying to brag. I play a lot of instruments and I have a good idea of where someone should be after only a couple of months. I believe I'm more like 6 months along than 2, regarding progress. I owe some of that to sheet music. I learned how to read drum sheet music in like 5 minutes. I then started scouring for drum sheet music to play from. Once I got pretty comfortable playing beats straight from the sheet music, I started writing my own. Except, I wasn't trying to truly write drum music - I was writing down tons of combinations. I even added in L and R to the sheet music and forced myself to play it exactly how I wrote it, even if changing an L or R here or there would have made it easier to play. One more thing I can add is: Find advanced beats that you cannot play. Strip all of the advanced stuff out and learn the basic accented parts of the beat. Once you get it rock solid, start adding the advanced parts back in a little at a time until you can play the whole beat. It took me 2 weeks to learn how to play "the funky drummer" pattern. I started by stripping the entire beat down to K.K.S..S..K..K.S and playing the high-hat at half time. I eventually added back in all the missed snares, and finally got the high-hat back to normal time. Breaking a beat down like this and building it back up is a powerful way to advance your skills. I went from that beat being way too complicated for me to being able to play the entire thing flawlessly on auto-pilot. I actually give all those syncopation lessons the credit. My feet hands all have separate "brains" mostly, and you absolutely need that to play something like "the funky drummer" pattern.

[@0neMadGypsy]

I'd like to add that when I was writing down all those combinations the idea was to make it hard. For instance, take a 4/4 pattern and add 16th notes in between the 4's at either 2 or 4 so it has more of a backseat feel. Practice that beat and when you are sure of yourself that you have it perfect, play to a metronome and realize that your stuff is all jacked up. 😂 However, from that part you can make minor adjustments, play it 1000 times, lock it in, and move on to the next beat.

[@stephenbirtle7851]

Life is good. Thanks rob. This is my number one drum educational video. 65 now and after watching and listening to you, I feel more confident than ever now to keep on playing… Thank you…

[@Bangarang0037]

Both my daughter and I are new to drums , new to you and new to this channel. With that said , We love this instrument, it’s a pleasure to meet you and consider us subscribed . Your videos and delivery (both verbally and on your kit) make you our new favorite teacher!

[@jasonrobley2109]

Always informative and a class act, let's get this guy the following and revenue he deserves. I thought most of the internet was worthless until i was given a drum kit and began looking into tuning methods. I was getting frustrated with all of the conflicting advice until i found Rob's no nonsense tuning vids. You tube owes him for getting me hooked on instructional vids. I'm buying some merch soon out of principal. Ditch video games and start learning something rewarding. Thanks again

[@RobBeatdownBrown]

Thanks man! 👊🏽🤓

[@leerorushing7538]

I started playing on pots and pans when I was a baby so I’m self taught but you’re definitely right listening to other good drummers and practicing is a way to learn if you don’t practice you’ll never learn

[@virginiaoverlander4720]

Love your videos. I played for 6 years...... 35 years ago. Now i am getting back into it and can afford my dream kit. Having a nice kit is not necessary but it sure is nice when when it sounds nice. Now if it don't sound right i can't blame the crappie as kit LOL. Good or bad it is all me. Thanks for all your tips and i will be watching for new content.

[@jamescatlin2221]

Best advice here dude. Rob’s talking the first 3 years as “beginner” I’m talking first 3 weeks. But, I’m having fun and like he said, that’s the main thing, even if you suck 👍

[@robertscranton8293]

Rob, I like how you teach...I am working on that last video thing...it's beginning to sound like butter...you know...when you can play with it and make it sound good. I really get a lot out of your videos. The Funk one...excellent...thanks. You give me confidence to grow. That means a lot to me personally.

[@lonewolfmgtow7187]

I’m a self-taught drummer always been my whole life my university was the church house growing up

[@abezwin72]

Me too

[@phillipsnell7188]

True. Practicing one problem you have will improve. Mine was double bass 16th notes. I'm now trying to perfect my 32nd notes. They're improving with the heal toe technique.

[@Killenmachine05]

Been self taught since I started at 8 years old, now 29 and definitely been on a plateau for about a good 5-6 years now.

[@TheStobb50]

Some almost 50 years ago I started self taught not one lesson, I was extremely fortunate that I was a natural and found myself playing fairly quick, it’s the only thing I’ve ever done that I had this experience everything else has been in line by line struggle, nowadays you have KZbin to help the main thing I never got to learn till quite a way into my career was correct tuning, KZbin is such a good tool I would say constantly watching and lissen I your heroes with me it was John Bonham, Keith Moon and Bev Bevan, Ginger Baker, I learnt so much watching and listening to them, never made a penny out of playing my drums but I’ve enjoyed every minute of it

[@randallross420]

hey yo, this is the best drum video i've seen so far. i'm a month deep, learning from scratch at 41 years old, trying to figure it out on my own. thanks for the help

[@albertmosely9384]

Hello Rob, I truly enjoyed your videos, I am a self-taught drummer, although at the time when I first started it all came so easy I begin to realize it was a gift from God. My sense of timing my coordination it was just amazing. I was able to hear things in the rhythm lines that other drummers could not hear some of the sticking came very easy for me. All of this got started in 1962 through God's grace and the support of my parent I'm at it still. I would play along with the radio play along with little 45 records and albums matter of fact in this part of the country where I was born drummers playing along with records at dance parties was the primary form of entertainment. I started playing live music with a band in 1970 until about 2010. I'm back at it again and enjoying it more than ever. Continue the great work that you're doing there's a lot of gifted people out there that have no one to turn to thank God there's you BEAT DOWN ROB BROWN🥁

[@drummerjoey003]

Cool video, thank you for this encouragement. The university I was at, was the upstairs of the garage. I got my first kit when I was 13yrs. I didn’t have enough stands for all my cymbals so I compromised. My dad had a huge bag of balen twine that I used to hang cymbals off the ceiling.

[@victormarshall9765]

I like that you mentioned practicing on pad. Also using different methods such as recording yourself . Playing to records and putting the time into the craft. When I was learning many years ago, we didn't have the resources that are available today. As I shared with my students you have so many options. Putting in the time is so important in how far you achieve in development. Thanks for sharing Rob Beat Down Brown.

[@robquimby4376]

Hey Rob, I am mostly self taught too, I would have guessed that you are formally trained... Bravo to you! I haven't played in longer than you have been playing, but I long to get back into it. Some of my best memories were playing for hours to vinyl. I started with learning the organ before I turned 5 years old, then school band clarinet, then drums. My father played upright bass and organ, so we had one in the house. I have really enjoyed your videos, keep it up, and I will keep watching. Rob

[@BydoEmpire73]

Get a set of mutes so you can play your kit quietly. Invaluable if you have family or other limitations to "full" practice. Related, I took an extra tom mute and put it on a stool to make an excellent, very quiet practice pad.

[@Gymcoach1]

Absolutely love this!!! I was a tap dancer originally and later I found my fiancé who is a guitar aficionado and played drums as well. I started out when I moved to Italy and would copy, every single day the sound from the circus across the street. Then when I came back to the USA, my fiancé said that I had something good and he showed me a few things that I didn’t know about the drums. Now I have purchased an Alesis pro and your videos have really helped me become an excellent drummer. I was already “pitch perfect “ on singing as well as I could pick out what instruments were off key but I spent the first 40 years of my life dancing and choreographing and it seemed natural for me to start playing drums. I love your Tia!! I’m a basement player as well and can now play such great beats as Metallica! Love you and keep the tips rolling ❤❤❤

[@MrRezRising]

Always and often play in front of ppl you don't know. Get used to falling on your face, and learn to be ok with it, and then get better. Listen to the bass player.

[@EqDior]

Awesome vid! These are the same tools i used while learning to play. they improved my drumming so fast. One more that help me alot is that i found 1 or 2 independence exercises that i did as often as possible.

[@azguitar]

Metronome, metronome, drum machine, metronome, metronome. Practice every new thing with a metronome, click track, whatever. . . develop your sense of time! Also, perfect practice makes perfect. Every mistake takes 30 perfect repetitions to correct. I learned that at Musicians Institute, and it's served me very well over the years.

[@CaryDunlap]

Rob, you're a great drummer and even better teacher. Thanks for doing what you do.

[@eagleeyeproductions2317]

Thanks so much Rob. This was all great advice! It was also encouraging to know that you were self taught as well. it gives me hope!

[@MS-gj7ni]

great tips im self taught mainly through playin songs of every genre i now earn my living playin in 4 bands of different genres these tips Rob gives are very true and the right way to go i love my practice pad

[@lobbyrobby]

I just started playing several months ago. I signed up for online lessons but most of the time I'm on KZbin. Of course the more I get into it I'm trying to learn harder things. Sometimes I get frustrated when I can't figure it out. Then I remember when I started I couldn't even play a simple beat. Now I can play all kinds of beats without even thinking about it. I need to remember this is a marathon and not a race.

[@Roadshopaudio]

So far you’re my fav KZbin drum coach. Thanks for the content, keep them coming.

[@jjbook1790]

This made me jump back on my kit. Very encouraging and inspiring. Thanks!